Deciding to train as a yoga teacher is an exciting step and time should be taken to consider what style of yoga you want to teach. Perhaps you already know that it is Vinyasa that you want to dive deeper into or maybe you are still deciding. This article will explain a little more about what to expect from Vinyasa Yoga before highlighting some of the best schools in the world for you to consider training with.

What is Vinyasa Yoga?

Vinyasa Yoga is commonly referred to as “Flow Yoga” due to the way each posture is sequenced to flow naturally into the next using the breath. “Vinyasa” is an ancient Sanskrit word that combines “vi” meaning “to place” or “variation”; and “nyasa” meaning “in a special way” or “within prescribed parameters”.

These “prescribed parameters” are specific to the way one should enter and exit the posture, not to be confused with “fixed” yoga styles such as Ashtanga or Bikram yoga which follow the same postures in each class. Vinyasa is varied, with each class differing from its predecessor, often with a different bodily or mental focus.

Due to its varied and fluid nature, where postures are held for as little as 5-20 seconds, Vinyasa is extremely popular. Most first-time yoga goers will seek out a Vinyasa class as they enjoy the heat that the quick movements build in the body and the balance that developed from a full body practice.

Types of training

Once you have decided that you want to train to be a yoga teacher, there are a few options to choose from regarding how you train: Intensive, part-time (modular) or online. In this article, we will highlight the pros and cons of choosing intensive or part-time programs, however, if you are interested in looking at online options check out our previous ARTICLE to decide if online training is for you.

Intensive

An intensive program for 200-hour certification is a magical experience that will immerse you in the world of Yoga for 2-3 weeks. Many people opt for programs that are based outside of their home town, state or country to truly remove themselves from everyday life.

Pros

Immersive

You will spend every waking hour living the life of a yogi which is an incredible experience. Most intensive programs focus on creating as authentic an experience as possible from the food that serves to the entertainment or excursions that are planned.

Exotic locations

Many intensive programs take the opportunity to remove you from your daily life and transport you to the birthplace of yoga (India) or to other popular Asian destinations such as Thailand or Bali.

Quick certification

An intensive program is exactly that, intensive, which means that you will complete your 200-hours of required training in as short a time as possible, normally 2 weeks. This is excellent if you are looking to become qualified as soon as possible and know that you are an “all or nothing” type of person.

Cons

Expensive

Most intensive programs tend to hold a higher price tag. It is usual that the quicker you complete your training the higher the price, however, there are some good “early bird” deals that many schools offer, so keep your eyes peeled.

It’s intensive

As is implied in the name, these programs are intensive. That means that you can expect to be up between 5-6 am each morning and not be done with your day until 8 or 9 pm. Your day is jam-packed with physical asana practice, how to sequence, philosophy, anatomy, pranayama and meditation (to name a few). This can be quite overwhelming for many, so ensure you are prepared to work hard for your certificate.

Inflexible

Most schools who offer intensive programs will run them a few times each year. There will be specific dates that they start which may not suit your schedule or allocated vacation time. Or perhaps you wish to spend your vacation time with friends and family and not studying. Whatever the reason, the availability of intensive programs may not work best for you.

Part-time (modular)

Part-time or modular programs are popular amongst those who are looking to make a career change without having to take a period of unpaid leave between jobs. Part-time programs take, on average, 3 to 6 months to complete and involve weekend and mid-week evening commitment (depending on the program).

Pros

Flexible

Part-time or modular programs run more frequently throughout the year, making them easier to fit into your schedule. If you choose a modular program you can often complete each module at your leisure, meaning that you can take anywhere between 6 months to 2 years to complete your qualification.

Lower price tag

Part-time programs tend to carry a lower price tag because you do not have the undivided attention of an instructor for 8 hours per day. This is a great option for many who want to study but do not have a large amount of disposable income.

You decide the pace.

Perhaps the idea of an intensive program puts you off because you enjoy sitting with you materials, diving into the research and embodying each practice fully before moving on to the next concept. If that is the case then a part-time program might be best for you as you decide the pace at which you complete it and how much extra reading you do.

Cons

Requires accountability

Part-time programs are great for those who are self-motivating and who stick to what they set out for themselves. However, if you know that you are the type of person to start of enthused but lose focus or motivation, then perhaps an intensive program would be better suited to keep you accountable.

Lacks immersive concepts

A part-time program will struggle to “transport” you back to the ancient lives of yogis and their masters for the main reason that you are only likely to spend 2-4 hours in training per week. This time will be dedicated to meeting your certification requirements rather than creating a space of magic. Great if you are keen to only teach, not so great if you are looking for more than just a certificate.

Vinyasa Schools

Now that you know a little more about what Vinyasa Yoga is and the different ways in which you can qualify, let’s have a look at our pick of the top 10 intensive schools across the globe (in no particular order).

1) Soma Yoga Institute

If you are looking for luxury, paradise and a somewhere to gain your 200-hour yoga teacher certification then why not take a trip to Hawaii? Soma Yoga Institutes 18-day program focuses on Vinyasa flow sequencing, Hatha and restorative yoga postures to ensure that students leaving the program are armed and ready to start teaching. Soma Yoga offers luxury accommodation and 3 meals per day (primarily vegetarian) for your entire stay. They cater for a wide range of food allergies and intolerances.

The curriculum covers:

• Vinyasa flow sequencing (level 1 and 2)
• Hatha and restorative Yoga framework
• Anatomy
• Relaxation
• Pranayama
• Meditation
• Freedom in yoga poses
• Ayurveda principles
• Chakra systems

Format:

• 18-day Intensive
• All-inclusive, 3 meals per day, luxury accommodation

Location: Hawaii, United States

Investment: USD $3,997

Website: Click Here

2) Sattya Yoga at Yogada In the Himilayas

Take a step back in time and experience your yoga teacher training in the most authentic way you can, in its birthplace, India. The Yogada ashram is snuggled in the foothills of the Himalayas, right next to the river Ganga making it the perfect place to come back to yourself, restore and learn. Meditation and quiet practice are punctuated with bird song and the whisper of mantras in the grounds. This 28-day program has traditional routes based in Hatha and Vinyasa flow styles.

The curriculum covers:

• Anatomy
• The cosmic body
• Know your body - Ayurveda way
• Rituals
• Mantras
• Cleansing techniques
• Vinyasa asana practice
• Meditation
• Pranayama
• Mudras and Bandhas
• Yoga philosophy
• Yogic food cooking
• Trekking and excursions

Format:

• 28-day intensive
• Includes 3 vegetarian meals per day, 27 nights accommodation, Ashram visit, trekking, river floating and guided walks to local villages.

Location: Rishikesh, India

Investment: USD $1,699 (Private Deluxe room - Other shared options available).

Website: Click Here

3) Parahita Alam Bali

This 25-day program will have you packing your bags and flying off to Bali to unroll your mat. Set in the beautiful rice fields of Gianyar, this program will broaden your understanding of Vinyasa asana, meditation and philosophy. Bali has a magic about it that you will feel during your transformation from who you are today to who you truly are.

The curriculum covers:

• Deep yoga history and philosophy
• Meditation
• Mudras, bandhas and pranayama
• Asanas
• Practicum
• The art of teaching
• Yoga ethics and morality

Format:

• 25-day intensive
• Includes 24-nights accommodation, 3 meals per day, traditional Balinese massage (no meals on days off).

Location: Bali, Indonesia

Investment: USD $2,400 (shared room).

Website: Click Here

4) The Yoga Mat School

Jet off to the beautiful island of Koh Samui, Thailand for a classical approach to your yoga teacher training. The lead teacher has been practising since she was 16 and will lead you in Vinyasa, Hatha and Yin yoga styles during your 26 days in paradise. This school prides its self on providing luxury service at a budget price that includes learning how to make yoga your business.

The curriculum covers:

• Asana (Vinyasa, Hatha and Yin)
• Alignment
• Pranayama
• Meditation and Mantra
• Anatomy and physiology
• Chakras and Nadis
• Yogic History and philosophy
• Teaching practicum and methodology
• Yoga as a business

Format:

• 26-day intensive
• 25 nights accommodation, 3 meals daily (Vegan and vegetarian), unlimited filtered water and tea, meditation trips and 1 waterfall excursion.

Location: Koh Samui, Thailand

Investment: USD $1,999 (shared room).

Website: Click Here

5) 11Exhale Yoga

Wanting to stay Stateside? Not a problem! This 15-day intensive program is situated in Carlsbad, San Diego county. This woman-only program is jam-packed but well worth the bedtime reading. Covering traditional yoga styles including Vinyasa, Hatha and Yin, students come out of their training feeling well-rounded and ready to teach! Their fantastic Yoga Business module keeps the smiles coming and new yoga teachers flourishing.

The curriculum covers:

• Module 1: The language of Yoga
• Module 2: Chakra subtle body anatomy
• Module 3: Physical body anatomy
• Module 4: Pranayama
• Module 5: Hand on adjustments
• Module 6: The Business of Yoga
• Module 7: Finding your voice
• Module 8: Yoga philosophy, lifestyle and ethics

Format:

• 15-day intensive, include evening reading to ensure the program can be completed within this time frame
• Includes 14 nights of dorm accommodation, private can be requested.
• Does not include meals

Location: Carlsbad, California

Investment: USD $3,088 (shared room).

Website: Click Here

6) Green Yoga International (Spain)

With its roots still grounded in India, Green Yoga International have extended a branch to Spain to further spread the power and peace of yoga. This Spanish Ashram is situated away from the hustle and bustle on the beautiful island of Mallorca, surrounded by aquamarine water and white sandy beaches. Hidden in the hills it is home to rabbits and tortoises, adding to the tranquillity of the surroundings. The accommodation is basic but comfortable, allowing you time to practice, be with yourself and nature.

The curriculum covers:

• Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
• Hatha Yoga
• Yin Yoga
• Meditation
• Bhakti Yoga
• Anatomy
• Philosophy
• Acro yoga workshop
• Aerial swing yoga workshop
• Ayurveda workshop

Format:

• 21-day intensive program
• 20 nights accommodation, Ayurvedic brunch and dinner, as well as healthy snacks, water and tea.
• Sunday meals are not included

Location: Mallorca, Spain

Investment: USD $2,243 (shared triple room).

Website: Click Here

7) Bienestar Uvita Yoga Shala

Are you looking for a yoga teacher training that is dedicated to deepening your spiritual practice alongside your physical one? Then this 24 day program is what you need. The instructors at Bienestar Uvita Yoga Shala are dedicated to broaden your experience of yoga and to deepen your spiritual awakening. All levels are welcome to join this program, however, they do ask that you come prepared to explore yourself and create new pathways of learning. This training is located in beautiful Costa Rica, surrounded by jungle and its bounty of fresh and vibrant food.

The curriculum covers:

• Asana exploration, alignment, balance
• Psychological stress and the physical body
• Anatomy and physiology
• Sequencing
• Pranayama
• Mudras
• Bandhas
• Chanting and body scanning
• Chair yoga
• Meditation
• Yoga philosophy, history and ethics

Format:

• 24-day intensive program
• 23 nights accommodation, 3 organic meals per day

Location: Uvita, Costa Rica

Investment: USD $4,600

Website: Click Here

8) East+West Yoga

East+West Yoga was founded out of the desire to bring the best teachings from the East and combine it with the structure and business focus of the west. This 200-hour training brings together three of the best and most well known eastern teachers into one training to ensure that your experience is authentic from start to finish, follow the styles of Hatha and Vinyasa.

During your stay Bali, where the training is held, you will go through the steps of yoga much like ancient yogi’s did with their masters. Learning the principles, philosophy and true nature of what it is to practice yoga, from a non-religious, but rather spiritual, perspective. The accommodation is nestled in the jungles of Ubud, offering a 100% plant-based menu and a number of shared or private room options.

The curriculum covers:

• Advanced asana practice
• Pranayama
• Meditation
• Bandhas
• Yoga Philosophy
• Teaching methodology
• The business of yoga

Format:

• 22 day intensive
• Includes 100% plant-based meals, accommodation, manual and one massage

Location: Ubud, Bali

Investment: USD $3,950 (Shared room and early bird offer)

Website: Click Here

9) Tuscan Fitness

Dreaming of rolling hills, flavourful food and a touch of sun? If venturing across the globe to Asia is not for you or you would like a different experience entirely, then choose Tuscan Fitness. This 21-day program is nestled in the golden hills of Tuscany, with beautiful accommodation at Hotel La Forra and all meals included. Music to the ears and to the soul. Peter, the lead teacher, has 12 years experience in yoga, meditation and martial arts. His aim is to change and improve the body from the inside out.

The curriculum covers:

• Therapeutic body movements
• Asana in their classic form
• Vinyasa yoga with alignment and adjustments
• Skeletal problems and solutions
• Meditation and mindfulness
• Buddhist teachings and Sutras

Format:

• 21-day intensive
• 20-night accomodation, all meals, local shuttle and train-station pick up

Location: Tuscany, Italy

Investment: USD $3,706 (Shared room)

Website: Click Here

10) The Himalayan Yoga Institute - Croatia

A gem of the Adriatic, this 26-day program shines with enthusiasm from the lead teacher who will lead you on a journey of self discovery. Set in the lush, beautiful surroundings of Croatia this one of a kind program combines Vinyasa principles with the wisdom and depth of Tantra.

Learn how to harness the power you have within you hormonal and chakra systems and dive deep within yourself. This program promises to take you on a journey that will reveal your inner bliss. The lead teacher requests that students come ready to devote time to their practice, including their spiritual journey.

The curriculum covers:

• Contemporary yoga and yoga styles
• The teacher and the business of teaching
• Yogic lifestyle
• Asana’s
• Yogic practices
• The inner body: Energy channels, Chakras and Koshas
• Anatomy and physiology
• Teaching methodology

Format:

• 26-day intensive
• 25 nights accommodation, all meals, an excursion

Location: Isle of Losinj, Croatia

Investment: USD $3,529

Website: Click Here

Key takeaways

So there you have it, our pick of the worlds top 10 intensive Vinyasa Yoga teacher training schools. All of these schools have something different to offer you so take time to research and really think about what it is that you want to take away from your training.

Is it that you want to learn more about yourself so as to become a better teacher? Is it that you want to learn more about the physical body to help people with aliment? Or perhaps you want a training that will arm you with the best information there is to step out into the world to make a living as a yoga teacher. Whatever your reason, there is a school for you. Happy hunting!